Maintaining graves is a very important task for our staff. Some common questions we hear involve how long it takes for a grave to settle, what the process entails, and when grass will be planted. Keep reading to learn more.
What is grave settling? Grave settling is the process of the earth (soil, clay, etc.) surrounding the burial readjusting.
How long does is take a grave to settle? The duration of time it takes for a grave to settle varies greatly on the season, type of burial, and other external factors. However, on average its takes about a year for a grave to fully settle.
What is the process of leveling a grave? Directly after the burial, the vault is surrounded by filler. While many cemeteries use only soil, we use fill sand to the top of the vault and then soil from the vault to the top of the grave. Sand is much more durable against water and therefore speeds and assists in the settling process. As the grave settles throughout the year, additional soil is added.
When will grass be planted? Grass will be planted on a grave before the grave has settled completely. Typically, the first seed application will occur within a few months of the burial, depending on the season. As the grave continues to settle throughout the year, more soil and seed are applied until the grave is level and the grass has grown in fully. Please keep in mind that grass seed cannot be planted during summer and winter months as the seeds will not germinate. We understand that leveling and seeding can cause distress to a family and we ask for your patience during the process.
When can a memorial or monument be placed? This answer varies depending on the individual situation. Many memorials can be set soon after the burial, weather permitting. The type of memorial (flush or above ground) will also affect how quickly it can be placed on a grave. It is also important to consider the production time of the memorial and if a poured cement foundation is required. Generally, memorials are not able to be set during late fall through early spring.
Edited by Joe Marques
Faith, Hope, and Remembrance 